Jetting off for a winter getaway can lead to significant savings, but there are various factors to consider. Holiday Expert Chelsea Dickenson recently tested a premium Turkish resort through TravelSupermarket, booking a seven-night stay at the 5-star AKKA Antedon in Antalya for £489 per person in January, a substantial 72% discount compared to August rates.
Chelsea, known for her travel expertise on ITV’s This Morning, aimed to evaluate the value of the discounted winter holiday. She spent a week exploring the resort amenities, from pools to entertainment, to determine if the reduced price justified the experience.
Here are her observations:
While the main outdoor pool was closed and seemed unkempt, another spacious outdoor pool adjacent to the kids’ pool remained open and heated. Additionally, an indoor heated pool was available in the spa.
The aquapark operated daily from 10am to 4pm, a rare feature for a winter stay in Antalya.
Although the beach lacked parasols and cabanas, guests could still enjoy loungers on the deck. The sea, though chilly, allowed for some brave souls to swim, while the water sports center was closed.
The gym and spa facilities were accessible daily, offering a luxurious experience with various amenities. Chelsea particularly praised the newly refurbished indoor pool area.
The kids club, outdoor play area, and kids’ buffet were appealing for families, with the club operating daily.
The buffet restaurant served a variety of dishes year-round, though some sections were closed during the winter season. The patisserie and snack bar provided limited but convenient food options.
Notably, only one à la carte restaurant was open during winter, requiring advance bookings for a minimum number of guests.
Despite fluctuating temperatures between 12 and 19°C, with occasional rain, Chelsea found the weather comfortable enough for outdoor activities, making it a pleasant retreat from the UK’s winter conditions.
The hotel offered a winter activity schedule, including fishing, hiking, and cocktail making, to keep guests engaged during their stay.
Although outdoor entertainment areas were closed, nightly live music and a Disco Bar provided entertainment options throughout the winter season.
Chelsea noted that the resort was busier during the Russian Christmas holidays but gradually quieted down later in January, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
In conclusion, Chelsea emphasized that while off-peak winter holidays come with limitations such as weather-dependency and reduced amenities, the substantial savings and opportunity to enjoy a luxurious stay make them a viable choice for those willing to trade guaranteed warmth for a budget-friendly escape.
The hotel has been approached for further comments.
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